DEMENTIA - Busting myths for awareness

More than a third (39 per cent) of people in the East Midlands are putting off seeking a dementia diagnosis for up to a year or more a study carried out by Alzheimer’s Society has found.

Dementia is the most feared health condition in the UK, perhaps explaining also why just under two-thirds (63 per cent) of people in the East Midlands surveyed felt a diagnosis would mean their life was over.

The study launches during Dementia Awareness Week, 15-21 May, as Alzheimer’s Society calls on people to confront dementia head on, be aware that they can do something about it and come to the charity for help and support.

225,000 people in the UK will develop dementia this year – that’s one person every three minutes. Unfortunately, a lack of diagnosis is denying many of these people the chance of getting the best possible treatment, information and support. Evidence shows the earlier you receive these, the better your chance of living well for longer. It also means that thousands of people are not being enabled to plan for the future while they still have capacity to make important decisions.

The YouGov research also reveals that there are still many myths that exist about dementia, which might put people off seeking a diagnosis – 41 per cent in the East Midlands thought they would have to immediately stop driving a car.

This Dementia Awareness Week, Alzheimer’s Society is tackling the many myths and misunderstandings about dementia, to show people that life doesn’t end when dementia begins, support is out there and it is possible to live life well beyond a dementia diagnosis. Alzheimer’s Society provides a range of services to support people affected by dementia. Call its National Dementia Helpline on 0300 222 1122 or visit alzheimers.org.uk/DAW or one of our local offices, Lincolnshire (01522 692681),